Published: 17 September 2026
Dear roadside hedge landowners,
At this time of year, the bracken and bramble is leaning into and growing onto the narrow lanes we use on a daily basis to get around. Other than the difficulties in driving through thick
undergrowth and damaging wing mirrors with scratches to the car’s bodywork, there are
safety issues. The visibility splays around junctions were cut a few weeks ago.
This is a kind, respectful reminder to just cut back the hedge growth over the road please.
The formal bit follows.
Under the Highways Act, roadside hedges are the responsibility of the landowner who has to:
–Prevent the hedge from overhanging the highway
–Prevent hedges from obscuring streetlights and road signs
–Clear the road of debris after hedges have been cut
–Meet the obligations of the wildlife and countryside Act 1981 ensuring that nesting
birds, bats and dormice are protected.
If the Highways team consider that a hedge interferes with safe use of the highway and the
landowner doesn’t take action to cut it, they can serve a formal notice that requires you to
undertake the necessary maintenance.
Thank you for your help in keeping our local lanes open.
Cllr Chris McFarling – County Division of Sedbury